Hey! Where are all the Chicagoans?

I want to take a trip into the city (from Rockford ) for our 11th anniversary and go to some excellent restaurants for lunch and dinner. I know all about the hype of the well known chef's restaurants, but I don't wan't to miss out on really good food just because the chef hasn't been on TV. Don't get me wrong I really do want to go to Trotter's and Bayless' places but I don't wan't that to be my only reason.

We love mexican, steaks, chops, ribs etc... not into sushi ,Thai, I don't think he would do fusion - French would be ok for him.